EXPANDING THE RANGE OF TEXT TYPES USED IN THE PRIMARY GRADES

Primary-grade students' experiences with text should prepare them to critically read an extensive range of text types throughout their schooling and career, a primary goal of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). However, research demonstrates that narrative text overshadows other text types in the primary grades. The purpose of this article is to share four approaches to help primary-grade teachers purposefully and successfully expand the range of text types read, written, and discussed in their classroom. By increasing young children's experiences with different types of texts, teachers can augment their students' knowledge, prepare students for texts they will encounter throughout life, and promote student interest in a range of genres. © 2014 International Reading Association.